May God bless each of you for your prayers, words of encouragement, and yes good words from the Lord.
Heather tried to move onto the ICU bed all by herself, but the nurses were there to stop her, and do that for her. Thats a good sign don’t ya think? All she could do was nod her head and stare at us when we asked her questions. It will take her some time to come off the meds. It might take a few days for her to say anything so lets keep praying for a strong recovery.
When they rolled her off today it was like it hit all of us…OH MY HERE WE GO. And then we just had to go back to living moment by moment. Thats about all I have to say right now, 4:45am is catching up with me.
I leave you with this. As I sat and talked with my father-in-law today this passage in James I kept coming to me.
2-4Consider it a sheer gift, friends, when tests and challenges come at you from all sides. You know that under pressure, your faith-life is forced into the open and shows its true colors. So don’t try to get out of anything prematurely. Let it do its work so you become mature and well-developed, not deficient in any way.
5-8If you don’t know what you’re doing, pray to the Father. He loves to help. You’ll get his help, and won’t be condescended to when you ask for it. Ask boldly, believingly, without a second thought. People who “worry their prayers” are like wind-whipped waves. Don’t think you’re going to get anything from the Master that way, adrift at sea, keeping all your options open.
9-11When down-and-outers get a break, cheer! And when the arrogant rich are brought down to size, cheer! Prosperity is as short-lived as a wildflower, so don’t ever count on it. You know that as soon as the sun rises, pouring down its scorching heat, the flower withers. Its petals wilt and, before you know it, that beautiful face is a barren stem. Well, that’s a picture of the “prosperous life.” At the very moment everyone is looking on in admiration, it fades away to nothing.
12Anyone who meets a testing challenge head-on and manages to stick it out is mighty fortunate. For such persons loyally in love with God, the reward is life and more life. the message bible
Go Get’em HD
Still Pressin On
HD’s Hubby
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Thank you Mark. I love her… you tell her that. And get some rest.
by LauraThat’s awesome. And thank you for the scripture. You’re ministering to many, many more than you will ever realize!
We’re keeping her covered in prayer! ((hugs))
by LundieOk, I’ve been hitting refresh here off and on for a few hours, praying each time I came. Thank-you for this awesome last update. How appropriate that verse is for you all.
Get some sleep and back to the fight tomorrow.
Hugs and prayers from Iowa.
dawnz
by dawnzWow. What a fighter she is. Give her a big hug from all of us and one for yourself too.
Still praying, still sending warm hugs and sweet thoughts.
So proud of her, so thankful for you being there with her, so in awe of God.
Love, Michelle
by military mommyWhat a great passage from the Bible! Your family’s testimony through this trial have been wonderful for the kingdom. Thank you for standing strong in what must feel like a nightmare.
Our family continues to pray for yours :)
by Sarah's in the Midst of ItWhat a wonderful update! My prayers will continue to be with all of you.
by Beth F.God is so GOOD! What else is there to say?
by FaerylandmomYour entire family bears a beautiful testimony. And if we can’t “know” you in person, I am so thankful to be a visitor to your blog. In your sorest trials, you have blessed me. Thank you for the updates. With all you have going on as the nearest to Heather, it is so great to hear from you as the husband. That seems like a very hopeful sign. I’m sure you are all exhausted and I am praying for lots of good rest tonight for ALL OF YOU, but “especially Heather,” of course. I will continue to pray as she remains there at Mayo that her recovery will progress smoothly. Again, thank you for allowing me to be privy to your testimony. It is a strong one for God. :)
by NikkiI am so glad everything is going well, I have kept Heather and all her family in my prayers, and yes, today I kept refreshing the page several times to see if there was an update, somehow I felt everything was going fine.
-Karla
by Mom of TwinadoesThank you for posting this for us. What a great kindness it is to reach out to us at a time like this. May God bless you. The prayers continue for all of you.
by Alice GuntherWhat a wonderful update to end the wait we have all shared today!
Prayers will continue to flow for Heather to turn to you and say…well, anything!
God is good. God is so good!
Hugs and prayers continue…
by AprilPraise the Lord! I’m continuing to pray for all.
by StacyI love that scripture, book of James is my favorite! It is always nice to read that scripture over and over again, LOL! I am so glad for the update so late at night, still praying for a strong recovery! I so happy for you guys! Stay strong in the Lord, ya’ll are doing great!
Heather :)
by Heather BixlerPraying. So glad the surgery is over. He is able to do far more than we can ask….
by Dee DeeThank you for taking time to update us, when you have to be about to drop. Sleep well.
Praise God!
Thank you for taknig the time to share this update with us. I had no computer access all day and had to rush home to ‘hear’ news. Please know that you remain in my family’s prayers.
by HeatherHeather
So great to hear from you - I almost called you this afternoon but figured you were probably fielding plenty-o-calls without me adding to the load. Hug Heather for me…hope you get some good rest tonight!
by boomamaMark –
Thanks for the update!! God be with you!
by SallieStorming heaven now for a strong recovery, for peace, and an incredible surge of strength for you all.
Thank you for the updates throughout the day - couldn’t focus on much else!
by LyricI am praying for Heather and for all of you there who love her so much.
by Joyful DaysThank you for the updates. I am so thankful she came out of this so strongly. I don’t have the words to tell you how much this whole thing–your family–has touched me. You will continue to be in my thoughts and prayers.
by JennSo great to hear she was already wanting to do things for herself. Will be praying she recovers soon and starts talking……
by The Pumkin PatchAwww, what a tough lil’ cookie she is ~ trying to get into the bed by herself!! That’s an awesome sign!!!
You get some well needed rest and know we’re all praying for y’all!!
by CarrieThat is totally Heather…and a very encouraging sign…prayers are still going up in Northern California…keep claiming Scripture and holding tight to God’s hand..and know that He’s never going to let you or Heather go…
Give her our love…
by Deena@Wholly DevotedPraise God!
May you all rest well tonight.
by ThoughtfulMomPraise the Lord! Our prayers remain with you.
Julie in Texas
by JuliePraise our Almighty Lord! Thank you for the updates. I am continuing to pray!
by allhisblessingsPraise God! We will continue to pray for Heather and your family. Get some rest tonight, I’m sure it’s needed.
by CarolPraise the Lord. I think Heather wanting to move herself sounds like an excellent sign :)
by Robyn“Don’t think you’re going to get anything from the Master that way, adrift at sea, keeping all your options open.”
All I can say is WOW. Is that ever true.
My husband and I have been praying for you and Heather, your children, and parents. We’ll be praying again tonight, with boldness and the highest of expectations.
God bless you all!
by kittyhoxWe have been praying for Heather throughout the day. So glad to hear that the surgery went well. Will keep praying for a quick, strong recovery! Praying for the rest of the family, too. Rest in Jesus!
by LivingforGodPraise God and prayers for a stong and speedy recovery. As so many of Heather’s posts have those scriptures speak volumes to me today. Thank you and blessings….
Heidi
by Heidi“For such persons loyally in love with God, the reward is life and more life.” Wow!
Hugs and prayers from us!
by YoungMommyDefinitely a good sign!!
Continued prayers, of course…
by SusanWonderful news. Praying for all of you.
by Kristen LaurenceGREAT news! Praying for strong recovery.
by julie carobiniOh how I pray all of you are able to get a good night’s sleep. Praise God and we will continue in prayer. I came here to read about Heather and was encouraged yet again in my personal life. Throughout this ENTIRE season in your all’s lives that has been the case. This website has encouraged and TRULY ministered to countless souls. Thank you for letting God speak through you and use this time - this challenge to minister to so many. Sunshine
by SunshinePs. 95: 1-3 (NLT) Come, let us sing to the Lord! Let us shout joyfully to the Rock of our salvation. Let us come to him with thanksgiving. Let us sing psalms of praise to him. For the Lord is a great God, a great King above all gods.
Praising God for this “day one” report and continuing in prayer. Praying specifically tonight for well rested nurses with gentle hands and quiet spirits. Praying for rest and any needed pain control for Heather. Praying for rest for the family. Praying for peace and comfort for all (including the children!). Praying for complete restoration for Heather.
Continuing to pray without ceasing…
by momrn2PRAISE GOD FOR THE SPIRT IN HER TO PRESS ON AND TRY AND JUMP ON THE OTHER BED!!!! I for one know jsut how gutsy and strong that is for a person to do. She is still in my heart!!!! THANK YOU JESUS FOR PRAYERS YOU HOLD TO YORU HEART!!
by Just a momI don’t know Heather personally but some how I am not surprised to hear she tried to move by herself. Way to go Heather!! :)
Praying in AZ.
by JanetJanet
God’s peace and comfort surround all of you.
As I say, even when life happens…He’s still Jesus. All else is sinking sand! That’s what I hear when I read your bible passage.
by RosemarieThank you for updating Mark and please know that Heather, you and your entire family are in my prayers. I’m here in MN also. I am about 3 hours away and wish I could be there with you all.
by TheresaThank you Mark for the update. I am so glad Praise be to God. I will continue praying for you all.
Angel ( Angel Mama)
by Angel Mama ( Pearls of Wisdom)Oh, thank you for the update, I believe that has to be good news. Will continue praying for Heather, and you, and her wonderful family. God Bless You all!
by ArleneJust had to check in before I went to bed.
Things sound very good if she’s trying to do things for herself. What a wonderful testimony to the grace of answered prayers!
So happy to hear that she came through this surgery and can now get on with recuperating and back to her loved ones!
Sending prayers for all of you!
by Christina HallEven at this late hour, Heather is still in my thoughts and prayers.
Thanks for the update! Press on, my friend! Lots of prayers being lifted up on ya’lls behalf!
by Tracey/Real Estate GirlI have been a lurker on your blog for a while now, and have been praying for you all… so I thought it was high time I introduce myself and let you know that I have been praying for Heather and family all day. I will certainly continue to pray and lift her and you all up to the Lord, thank you for the timely news and I pray that all of you, Heather especially, will rest and recover in the Lord throughout the night and the days to come.
by JenI remember singing this in high school and the Lord just brought it to mind for you:
May the Lord bless you and keep you,
May the Lord make His face to shine upon you and give you peace…
and until we meet again, may God hold you in teh palm of His hand.
Indeed, AMEN!
In Christ’s Love,
Jen
Morning by morning new mercies I see - All I have needed thy hand hath provided
Elaine
by ElaineThis sounds really good! I will keep on praying.
by JeannineI have been following but not commented. I had to comment on this.
I am also praying. Thank you so much for the scripture.
Reading this is changing the way I live my life. I am so grateful that you have shared your story.
I will continue to pray.Quick recovery. Rest and peace. Our God is a big, big God.
by melPraise the Lord! I’ll continue to pray for you and your family. :)
by JennyThank you so much for taking the time to update us. I’m still praying. Now, try and get some rest.
by KieshaPraying for a *restful* rest for all of you, and for God’s gracious blessings on Heather’s recovery.
by Kim in MIWONDERFUL news!!!! I am just so thrilled!!!
Thank you for your words too - you are all teaching us so much!!!!
by Janice (5 Minutes for Mom)Many many prayers for Heather still.
by Melany aka SupermomMark - Bless your heart - you must be totally exhausted! I’m so glad you are there for Heather. Thanks for sharing this update with us. Today, my thoughts and prayers have been on you and Heather, as well as your family and the hosp. staff. - ALL DAY! Will continue to pray for complete and quick healing of your precious wife. And I’ll pray for strength for you, as well. God bless!
Kate
by Kathryn GriffithsThank you so much for the update on Heather and … such a encouraging report too … Praise the Lord!
Mark, I hope you’re able to get some good rest as well as the rest of the family too.
And yes, still praying! :-)
Love,
Jennelle
by JennelleThank you Mark!
I’m a lurker, but have been praying for you for awhile now. Praise God for His lovingkindness. Your scripture ministered to my heart, mind and soul at this moment that I’m thinking of you and your wife. God Bless You and I pray for a quick recovery and Victory in Jesus Mighty name!!
by RebekahSending love and prayer from all of us to her and your family.
by IreneThank you for taking the time, your weary time, to update us. Sounds like that spunky Heather is shining through.
I pray for rest and recovery…for Heather, for you, for your family.
by melodySPraying for you all from the wilds of Scotland. Thank you so much for allowing us to share in your journey - your lives are such a witness for Christ and so many seeds will have been sown by your courage in sharing. May God continue to bless you richly.
Much love
by Susanx
God is still in the healing business..
by GrdmotherGrandmother in Alabama
Woke up at 3 a.m. this morning…wondering about Heather. Had to come down and look for an update. I’ve been praying every time you guys come to mind.
by ColleenHugs to you all.
Am so relieved…as soon as I got up this morning, one of my first thoughts was ‘I really need to log on and check see how Heather is…’. Am praying for you guys, so much! God is your fortress, it is so evident to all.
by RachelMuch love in Jesus
I have no words at all to convey how happy I am that Heather came through ok. I have only been reading for a few months, and commented perhaps twice, but she has become so very dear to my heart. My husband asked me today “how is Heather doing?”… as I had told him all about everything and he knew she would be in surgery. PLease know we are praying for you diligently.
Jenny
by Jenny(Darwin, Australia)
Praise God. Only He gives peace that surpasses all our understanding. Praying and rejoicing.
by DebDeborah
(UK)
certainly sounds as wonder as you can hope for! The prayers are still flying from the beach - thank you for taking the time to fill us in (and give us such wonderful thoughts to hold onto!
by LauriGod Bless
Lauri
God has been holding you and
by Alexisheather in the palm of His hands. C ontinuing to pray.
Praise God! Im still praying for Heather and all of you. Thanks for the update.
by CareyThat is wonderful news. Thanks for taking the time to update us. Still praying!
by emily_hopeStill praying and praising the Lord in Pennsylvania … for each of you.
by ElizabethThank you for the update. Sounds like the news is good. Still keeping all of you in my prayers.
by LisaGod is Great! Continuing to pray.
by DeeGood Morning Mark,
by babaThank you so much for taking the time and sending this message of Hope…..God bless you and your Family. Give Heather our Love. Baba
You and Heather are demonstrating Faith In Action. God Bless You and Your Testimony.
by SusanAhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh, relief… I will continue to pray. So cute that she was helping the nurses!!! (;~))
by shacariMark,
by JulieThanks for the update. Try to get some rest when you can. Heather seems like a true fighter. If times get rough for her, remind her that their are people all over the workld fighting for her and praying with you guys.
Julie from Kentucky
AMAZING! Thanks for the Scripture and the update! It’s the first thing I looked for this morning when I got up! :) Praying on!
by Tamara CosbyMark, Thank you for sharing this fabulous report with all of us! Heather, and your entire family, will remain in our prayers today….and each day forward. In fact, I think it’s safe to say, after awaking this morning during a dream where I was praying for Heather…that we can safely say…we are praying for her night ….. and day!
What a beautiful scripture! And how beautiful to see your faith in action…..while being tested! What an amazing testimony of faith alive!
Diane
by DianeIt’s so great to hear that she is doing so well.
If you’re like me, there are Scriptures that we read and know the truth of on one level, but then God puts us in experiences where we understand it in a whole new way and the passage ministers us on a much deeper level.
God is so good!
by Barbara H.Praise God for that awesome report! I know He’s with Heather right now!
by Heather SPTL! Jehovah Rapha - The Lord Healer is at work. Many prayers are being said for Heather and You!!
by MikkiPraise the Lord! The scriptures brought me to tears. And the thought of her trying to get into the bed by herself brought a smile to my lips. Rest well in God’s arms!
by DawnThank you for stopping to update us. Really.
This morning I woke up as the sun was coming up. My first thought was of Heather and then of this scripture: Malachi 4:2 “But for you who revere my name, the sun of righteousness will rise with healing in its wings.”
I’m not slowing down w/prayers b/c the surgery is over (nor is anyone obviously!) I wish I could explain the verse better and how I’m praying for her–I just picture the sun rising and seeing it’s rays touch everything slowly until it’s as bright as the noonday sun. I’m praying Heather’s healing will be that way.
Be encouraged and rest!
by oh amandaSo glad to hear the good report. We all will continue to pray for her and for your whole family. God bless you each in a special way - we look forward to more good reports. You and your wife have truly shown the awesome power of God through this trial!! Lisa in Texas = )
by LisaThat’s our sassy Heather! Even under major medication!! :)
by KarlaKnow that we’re continuing to cover all of you (medical staff during recovery included) in prayer!!
Thanks for the update!
Praise the Lord, she was trying to get up!! What a great passage in James! Keeping you guys covered in prayer :-)
God Bless~
by Karen from the KornerKaren
Awesome!!! Take it from someone that has had a husband with brain surgery moving is a good thing!! We are praying for you Heather, your family, and all the medical staff around you.
by DarlaThanks for the update…looking forward to hearing how she did last night and today.
Prayers continue~
by VictoriaThis sounds very encouraging. You and Heather have faced this with so much courage, you’ve put everything back into the right perspective for many of us out here. Give her a gentle hug for me. Continuing to pray.
by BarbThanks so much Mark! So good to hear your update and what a POWERFUL passage the Lord brought to your mind. Moment by Moment living in dependance upon Christ, who is your life…keeping walking brother and sister…we’re behind you and praying for you! Much love in Christ…
by KariThat is great news! Your family is a POWERFUL testimony. Loved your words from James this morning. . .you are truly a man of God and head of your household and I admire you for that. Will keep praying for strength, peace, & rest for all of you!
by Laurie in TNI am praying for your whole family. Mark, I’m sure there will be times that you wish it was you undergoing the surgery, not Heather. It must be really hard to stand by and watch as she has to struggle to recouperate. She’s a lucky woman to have you by her side. I pray that peace will continue to fill your spirits, and that healing will be swift and as painless as possible. Thank you for sharing the verses with us…they apply in so many ways.
by SusanI’m so happy to hear that she’s doing as well as she is. Praise God! You’re all in my prayers every time I pray.
by JustabeachkatThank God.
by mopsyThank you, God! Continue to reveal the way You have answered our prayers. Thank you that Heather is able to move! What a blessing to serve a God who likes to show off His goodness and power!
Still praying!
by SusanI’m so glad Heather is doing well!!! I’m still praying for her!
by TirzahMark — Praise God that she is showing determination even in the few hours after her surgery!
The scripture is so perfect, and anyone that reads this blog and/or knows Heather, knows that she IS “loyally in love with God”, and we are just sitting back claiming her reward of life and more life!!!
Wow! All I can say to sum my feelings up right now is… Ha–lle–lu–jah!!!
Still praying without ceasing.
by GiBeeHallelujah! We are still praying, but want to rejoice at her being out of surgery and the tumor removed successfully. Thank you for the updates…hope you got some rest last night.
by Karen (Changed by Love)You have all been in my thoughts a prayers.
What an appropriate passage. Thank you for sharing what was on your heart.
There is so much strength surrounding all of you.
Praise the Lord!
by SusanSo great to hear such good news. I will continue to lift all of you up. God is so good!
by ShelleyWOW - what a strong woman, her spirit amazes me!
God bless, and continuing to pray!
by JennI woke up with your family on my mind this morning and have lifted you all up in prayer. Stay strong and your journey today and take it minute by minute with God leading the steps.
by ChrisWonderful news! So many people are praying for Heather and you and your whole family. Be encouraged! Our God is a God who saves! Let God arise!
by Kelly at Love WellYa done good.
Heather tried to get up and move herself!!!
That is astonishing!!!
Live Strong, Heather dear.
And you too, DH!
by Miz BooshayI praise God for the good report. I will continue to lift you up in prayer.
by Julie S.Continued prayers for all of you! with love in Christ, Karen
by Karen E.Praise God!
This is SO awesome.
Continuing to pray for all of you.
mary
by MaryPRAISE GOD for His goodness and watch care over Heather! Will continue to pray and look for updates :)
by KarenHeather my heart is with you. Will continue to look for updates. Will say prayers…
by Lisa BExcellent news! I’ve been praying so hard for Heather. She must be so strong to want to move to the bed after brain surgery!! Praise God, He is faithful and has Heather in His hands, always. Wonderful verses you quoted too, just perfect, God’s Word is famous for that, huh? Take care both of you and still praying for her recovery.
Molly (:
by MollyMy prayers are with Heather and with your family. What a blessing that things are going well!
by RandiStill praying in Dallas, TX!! Thank you for taking the time to keep us updated and for the wonderful messages. Your family is a total inspiration.
by BarbaraChecking in this AM for an update on Heather,wonderful news, goes to show you..you can’t keep a good woman down.:)..Continuing to keep you all in prayers.Hope you wee able to get some sleep. God Bless!!!!
by Karen